Title: Tinted Lithograph of a Herd of Bison Near Lake Jessie, 1856
Description: This striking lithograph, "Herd of Bison Near Lake Jessie," offers a sweeping view of the American prairie teeming with life. Published as General Report – Plate X in the Pacific Railroad Exploration Survey reports of 1856, the scene vividly captures the vast grasslands and rolling hills dotted with countless bison, a hallmark of the Great Plains ecosystem during the 19th century.
The composition highlights the grandeur of the landscape, with the expansive horizon and distant lake providing depth and context. In the foreground, a few bison are detailed with precision, showcasing their iconic form and movement. The scene reflects the richness of the environment before the westward expansion dramatically reduced bison populations.
Rendered with tinted lithography by Sarony, Major & Knapp, the warm, earthy tones of the prairie and the intricate detailing of the herd bring the image to life. This print is a remarkable blend of artistry and historical documentation, emphasizing the importance of preserving the memory of this once-abundant wildlife and its role in shaping the American West.
Additional Info: Lake Jessie is in Dakota Territory (historically), and today it is located in North Dakota.
Geographical & Historical Context: Lake Jessie is in Griggs County, North Dakota, near the town of Binford. It was an important landmark along early exploration and settlement routes in the 19th century. Dakota Territory was established in 1861 and later split into North Dakota and South Dakota when they became states in 1889.
Notable Historical References: Lake Jessie was visited by early explorers, including members of John C. Frémont’s expedition in 1839. It was named after Jessie Benton Frémont, the wife of explorer John C. Frémont. The area around Lake Jessie was known for fur trading, indigenous settlements, and later homesteading.
Condition: Very good, with minimal foxing at the margins. The image is clear, and the tones are vibrant. One very small pinhole in the title.
Framing Tip: Enhance this lithograph's warm tones with a light brown or cream matte and a wooden or rustic-style frame. This piece is perfect for a study, library, or collection celebrating the natural history and grandeur of the American landscape.
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.